The Register-Herald
Published: Autust 26, 2006

FastTrac^® program coming to Beckley

By: Fred Pace

A program with recorded success is coming back to Beckley. The FastTrac^® GrowthVenture^™ program will begin Sept. 5 at the Workforce Center in Beckley.

The 10-week program is delivered by the INNOVA Commercialization Group, an initiative of the West Virginia High Technology Consortium Foundation, and developed internationally by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation of Kansas City. The program will conclude prior to the December holiday season.

According to Patrick Gregg, outreach manager and FastTrac^® statewide administrator, the program consists of 10 sessions - one evening a week from 6 to 9:30 p.m.

"Sessions include facilitated discussion, expert guest speakers, small group exercises, research and homework that lead to a completed business plan at the close of the 10-week period," Gregg said.

Gregg says FastTrac^® is a comprehensive entrepreneurship-educational program that provides business insights, leadership skills and professional networking connections to prepare entrepreneurs to create a new business or expand an existing enterprise.

"The FastTrac^® program includes practical, hands-on business development programs and workshops for existing and aspiring entrepreneurs, as well as entrepreneurship curriculum for college students," he said. "FastTrac^® is designed to help entrepreneurs hone the skills needed to create, manage and grow successful businesses."

Students must attend and complete the requirements to receive FastTrac^® certification. CPE credits and flexible payment plans are available, Gregg added.

"The total cost of the 10-week program is $1,100 and there are a limited number of scholarships available to cover one-half the cost for individuals that qualify," he said.

Scholarship applications, enrollment forms and additional information may be obtained by contacting Deana Keener at gdkeener@wvhtf.org or 304-366-2577 or toll free 1-877-363-5482.